Gummun Place Hostel, a beacon of community and aged care service in Merriwa, NSW, faces closure. Established in the 1990s by our community members who yearned to provide assistive living for our ageing friends and neighbours, this institution holds a cherished place in our hearts. The generous Egan family donated the land, and our community rallied to construct this facility that has since become home to many. Today, this local treasure, managed by the local council, is aging and requires significant upgrades to remain functional.

The closure of Gummun Place would mean leaving our elderly without crucial support in their local environment — the only aged care facility we have in town. Yet, the issue stretches beyond the boundaries of Merriwa. The Federal Government's one-size-fits-all approach to funding for the Aged Care Sector across Australia neglects the specific needs and challenges of regional areas like ours.

Our plea is twofold. Firstly, we demand an urgent intervention to save Gummun Place Hostel from imminent closure. This is of vital importance for our community's cohesion and wellbeing. Secondly, a comprehensive review and revision of the Federal Government's funding model for the Aged Care Sector are essential. We need to see the implementation of a two-tier funding structure that accommodates Metropolitan and Regional areas' unique realities.

Let's stand up for our elderly and for the distinct needs of rural communities across Australia. Your signature could make a significant difference in preserving cherished institutions like Gummun Place and ensuring the well-being of our ageing citizens. Please sign and lend your support to our fight for fair funding and our mission to save Gummun Place Hostel.